Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and New Zealand featured a pivotal moment when Ravichandran Ashwin‘s fielding brilliance helped India dismiss the dangerous Daryl Mitchell.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s brilliant fielding shifts momentum

The dismissal took place in the 27.5 over of New Zealand’s second innings, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. Mitchell, attempting to loft the ball, mistimed his shot off the bottom of the bat, leading to a high but short trajectory. Ashwin, positioned at mid-on, reacted swiftly, sprinting backward while maintaining a side-on approach to track the ball’s flight. He completed an outstanding two-handed catch while falling, sealing Mitchell’s fate. This spectacular effort sent Mitchell back to the pavilion for 21 off 44 balls, leaving him visibly stunned.

Here’s the video:

Runs backwards
Keeps his eyes 👀 on the ball
Completes an outstanding catch 👍

Sensational stuff from R Ashwin! 👏 👏

Live ▶️ https://t.co/KNIvTEy04z#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @ashwinravi99 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ONmRJWPk8t

— BCCI (@BCCI) November 2, 2024

Rohit Sharma’s tactical changes bring immediate results

The crucial wicket came at a moment when New Zealand’s second innings had reached a rebuilding phase. Prior to Jadeja’s breakthrough, a broadcast stat indicated that no wickets had fallen between overs 21 and 30 in either first innings. Mitchell and Will Young, who had previously anchored New Zealand’s batting, were on course to replicate that feat. Their 50-run stand was beginning to strain India’s efforts, especially as the pitch conditions continued to worsen. To counter this, India made a strategic change by switching Jadeja’s bowling end, tapping into the side’s previous success from that position. The gamble paid off as Mitchell’s attempt at an aggressive shot resulted in his dismissal, shifting momentum in India’s favor.

Also WATCH: Ravichandran Ashwin outfoxes Rachin Ravindra with his masterful bowling on Day 2 of the 3rd Test

New Zealand’s position after Daryl Mitchell’s departure

Mitchell’s wicket came at a critical juncture, leaving New Zealand at 125/5 after 32 overs with a lead of 97 runs. The dismissal was a significant blow to New Zealand’s ambitions, as their innings teetered on the edge. The things got worsen for the visitors as they lost two more wickets including Glenn Phillips. Young and bowlers were now left with the task of stabilizing the innings and protecting the slender lead. However India capitalized on their breakthrough and limit New Zealand’s scoring opportunities. As the second day ended, New Zealand were at 171/9, leading by 143 runs.

Earlier in the day, India managed to post 263 runs in 59.4 overs, taking a modest 28-run lead The standout for India was Shubman Gill, who fell agonizingly short of a century, scoring a composed 90. Rishabh Pant added a spirited 60 off 59, showcasing his aggressive approach. On the bowling side, New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel was the pick of the lot, securing a five-wicket haul. Matt Henry, Phillips, and Ish Sodhi each took a wicket, ensuring India’s innings ended with minimal damage to New Zealand’s hopes.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Fans react as Shubman Gill misses out on a century by a whisker on Day 2 of the 3rd Test

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